Diagnosis

Diagnosis is usually made based on the lesion appearance. Sometimes a biopsy will be taken to rule out other conditions. A biopsy is the removal of a small sample of the area.

Treatment

Molluscum contagiosum usually goes away on its own within six months to two years without any treatment. For people with HIV infection, the lesions usually persist and spread indefinitely. Your doctor may recommend the removal of some lesions to prevent the spread of the infection or to avoid infecting others.

Lesion may be removed by one of the following:

Cryotherapy—freezing of the lesion

Curettage—cutting out lesion

Laser surgery—steady or pulsed high intensity light

Topical therapy—destruction of the lesion with a variety of chemicals

Prevention

To reduce your chances of getting molluscum contagiosum, avoid any contact with an infected person.

If you are contagious, avoid any personal contact with others, contact sports, or sharing personal items.

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.